Pirates Of The Decian Sea

Part 2

One thing that always impressed Corwyn was the opulence of the different branches of the Royal Bank. "For an institution that let people put money in at one location, then withdraw money in a different country and not charge a copper for it to make enough gold for such beautiful decorations, it boggles the mind!"

"That is just one of the services they offer," Tanner explained, adjusting the heavy sack he had slung over his right shoulder. "And don't let the name fool you. There is absolutely nothing 'royal' about them. They are run by common born merchants. In fact they loan gold to monarchies and nobility, then charge a lot of interest on it. That's where they make their real wealth. In fact, my father..." David stopped mid-sentence.

"What about your father, lad?"

"Oh, nothing. He took out a loan once to buy some new leather-working tools. He said it wasn't worth the hassle it caused and he would never deal with them again unless he absolutely had to." David fell into an awkward silence.

Fyke knew better than to press him. He spent the rest of walk towards the banker's window looking at the beautiful variegated carpet, the colorful tapestries, or the many fine works of art that lined the walls, both paintings and marble statues. The customers were mostly well off, wearing fine silk clothing and the best leather footwear the city of River's End had to offer.

"Hello, Mr. Tanner," the pudgy, well dressed man behind the counter said. "How much will we be depositing today?"

David hoisted the heavy sack he had been carrying onto the counter. "Three thousand gold. This is for my personal account."

"Not bad! You are amassing quite the fortune, young man. I'll take it in the back to get weighed and then I'll bring you your receipt."

"Maurice," David said, "Could I please speak to the manager? I understand that you fellows need a transfer run to Port Cauldwell, and with us, you wouldn't have to pay the guild premium."

The banker raised his eyebrows. "Is Captain Karinga aware of the risk he is incurring in such a transaction?"

"Yes, he understands completely."

Maurice looked to Corwyn. "You are his first mate, aren't you?"

"Um, yes sir, I am. And the lad speaks the truth."

"Very well. Mr. Fyke, you may wait in the customer's lounge. Help yourself to any refreshments you may desire. Mr. Tanner, please come with me."

Fyke wandered over to the lounge. Looking inside, he realized he would stick out like a sore thumb with his black silk shirt, black three-cornered hat with a large green plume, black leather pants, and leather boots. He was also the only one armed, carrying his rapier and throwing daggers.

The other customers stopped their conversations when he walked into the room and stared at him. Corwyn fidgeted uncomfortably at the unwanted attention. He walked over to the refreshment table. Available were pastries of every kind, honey nut treats, boiled cream tarts, fresh fruit, and several jugs of various liquid refreshments. He picked up a small plate of apple slices and began walking around the room, looking at the paintings that lined the walls.

"Sea-going fellow, are we?"

Fyke turned to man who wore the livery of a royal court member. He looked to be in his early fifties, was clean shaven, and had straight salt and pepper hair. "Yes sir. I am Corwyn Fyke, first mate aboard the Waverunner." He extended his hand.

The man grasped it and shook. "Geoffrey Haemar, chief advisor for King Nicolae Northcott."

"Wow. That is an impressive position!"